The ultimate adventure for altitude junkies with a love of history

Machu Picchu, Peru

Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trekking

Hiking·

12 days·G Adventures

Start: Cusco

·

End: Cusco

Description

The ultimate adventure for altitude junkies with a love of history, this challenging 12-day journey snakes its way between the most incredible Inca sites in Peru. Conquer a mind-blowing trek to the mountaintop fortress of Choquequirao — free of tourist throngs — before continuing onto Santa Teresa, the backdoor to Machu Picchu. With guided tours of the Sacred Valley, Choquequirao and Machu Picc...

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Itinerary

Day 1Cusco

Arrive early and spend some time exploring the city. Meet the group at the welcome meeting, check for the start time on the welcome note at the hotel.

Day 2Cusco

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Stop at the G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op before visiting a local pottery making community. Break for lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa community restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. After lunch, opt to head out on a hike to the Ollantaytambo storehouses and look out over the ruins. Or, wander around the cobblestone streets and visit a local Chicheria (corn beer bar) before returning to Cusco for the night.

Day 3Cusco/Chiquisca

Even though the lost city of Choquequirao was discovered hundreds of years ago, it still feels as though you may be the first to discover it. The trek to this remote Incan city although challenging, is well worth the effort. Winding trails take you through the Apurimac River canyon with views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountains making a breathtaking backdrop.

Day 4Chiquisca/Choquequirao

Continue trekking through the Apurimac River canyon on the way to Marampata. Keep your eyes open for condors as you make your way up into the cloud forest to Choquequirao, where you'll camp for the night.

Day 5Choquequirao/Pinchiunuyocc

Explore the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, comparable only to Machu Picchu in its beauty, grandeur and architectural accomplishment.

Day 6Pinchiunuyocc/Maizal campsite

Pass through local communities and stunning Andean vistas. Enjoy delicious meals prepared by the cooks along the way and after settling into camp, stretch out under the stars.

Day 7Maizal campsite/Yanama

Continue upwards through the jungle towards the ancient Victoria Mines and visit the Coryhuayrachina ruins along the way.

Day 8Yanama/Totora

Before descending to Totora, enjoy the snow-capped mountains that surround the area.

Day 9Totora/La Playa

Follow the trail down the slope of the Andes to the sub-tropical valley, camp for the night at La Playa.

Trekking into the valley the temperature will be noticeably warmer, enjoy the variety of flora and fauna. Pass by lush groves of tropical fruit, cocoa, and coffee.

Day 10La Playa /Aguas Calientes

Head out on the last portion of the hike to Hidroelectrica train station and transfer by train to Aguas Calientes for the night.

Day 11Aguas Calientes/Cusco

Rise early to take advantage of viewing Machu Picchu in the early morning light. This is the best time to view the 'Lost City of the Incas'. Join the local guide for a detailed interpretation of the site and Inca history without the pressure of other tour groups that arrive at midday. Later in the afternoon return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer by van to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

Meals Included

11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 7 dinners

What to Take

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night.
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one ... Read more

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